Hooray! My "Husband" John was in town, so a celebration feast with our good friends Heather and Shawn, including Heather's Mom who was also in town, was in order.

Truth be told, John is not my husband. He is my best friend, cheerleader, champion and if we played for the same team, would be giving Handsome Chris a run for his money. With a sly smile on his face, John introduced himself to Chris with the statement that he and I are like Will & Grace - a package deal. This evening we were blessed with time together.

Feasting is always in order at our favorite place, the delicious, locally sourced Social Urban Bar & Restaurant. Our group of five ordered a total of nine (9!) different small plates, large plates and desserts. I will write about my three favorites. You really should take the time to spend an evening dining at Social - arguably the best restaurant in Rockford.

I come to Social primarily for the brussels sprouts. No lie. I have never, ever cooked a single brussels sprout. This vegetarian dish is so cravably amazing. Shaved brussels sprouts pan fried with capers, parmesan, and lemon. I have carried a k-cup of these sprouts down the street to a friend who was bartending so he could try them. I have taken this dish home and eaten it at room temperature at midnight. It is absolutely my favorite vegetable dish. This is my #1 choice from the evening's nine dishes.

Gnocchi, the small potato based Italian pasta, was so tender, delicate and flavorful this evening that I wanted to place another order for myself, not to share with the table. Chef Chase combined the gnocchi with green beans, a locally sourced smoked ham, freshly shaved parmesan and a stunning garlic scape pesto. When Handsome Chris comes to visit I will introduce him to Social. I will order this unique dish again. The question is open as to my sharing capabilities. This is my #2 favorite choice from this evening's feast.

Yes, where I go, dessert is sure to be ordered. We ordered every dessert on the menu. On a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the Bo Derekof the group, the chef's choice ice cream was a 1 (I took a second bite to confirm how unpalatable it was), the ricotta fritters with an orange scented homemade nutella was a 4 (homemade nutella has more grit than its commercial counterpart - which is fine. The inclusion of orange limits the appeal, while the ricotta fritters were basically a homemade doughnut hole).

The standout of the dessert line up, coming in at a solid 8 was the olive oil cake. Permeated by lemon, the cake was a lighter, Italian version of the American pound cake. Served with a trio of sauces; fresh raspberry, Meyer lemon curd, and a balsamic vinegar reduction.